Ansonia High running back Arkeel Newsome offered a verbal commitment to the University of Connecticut Wednesday afternoon.

"I've been leaning towards UConn throughout this whole process," Newsome said. "But it wasn't until 4 p.m. (Wednesday) that I sat down with my family and my coaches and made the decision."

The Chargers all-state running back was offered a full-scholarship by the Huskies last year, and admitted he had always wanted to play for them.

"UConn was always at the top of my list," stated Newsome. "It's a dream situation for me to have the opportunity to play for my home state."

The 5-foot-8, 180-pounder has rushed for 6,805 career yards and 108 touchdowns. Both records are currently held by former Ansonia star Alex Thomas (8,279 yards, 747 points), whom Newsome trails by 1,474 yards and seven points. Newsome already holds the state record for career touchdowns with 119.

"I think it is a great thing when a kid can get a full scholarship to a good university like Connecticut," said Ansonia coach Tom Brockett. "It is a reward for a lot of hard work and sacrifice on Arkeel's part so I'm very happy for him."

In 2012, Newsome carried the ball 227 times for 2,242 yards and 38 touchdowns, 20 touchdowns less than his sophomore season. He had an ankle injury that kept him sidelined for several games.

"I'm just excited to get out there and play on the Division I college level," said Newsome. "I understand that it will be a different speed, but I'm up for the challenge."

Though Newsome has already made a verbal commitment for the 2014 season, he cant sign until February and he isn't getting too far ahead of himself.

"I'm a team first guy, all that other stuff doesn't matter if we don't win," explained Newsome. "Winning the state championship is always the goal when you start the season. I'm hoping that my class and I can finish strong, and that our team can get the three-peat."

Ansonia is 39-2 the past three seasons, and has won two consecutive state titles, a Class S title in 2012 and a Class M title in 2011.

The Chargers were also Class S runner-up in Newsome's freshman season.

"I think it is a great thing for Connecticut," Brockett said. "Any time they can land the best player in the state it is a good thing for their program, and they are getting a great player."

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